Name: Best General Surgery & Gastroenterolgy in Alwarpet, Chennai
Address: Alwarpet, Chennai
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ERCP Procedure in Alwarpet, Chennai

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure used in general surgery and gastroenterology. An ERCP combines X-ray and an endoscope (a long flexible lighted tube) to treat issues in the liver, gallbladder, bile or pancreatic ducts and pancreas.

What does an ERCP entail?

An ERCP can be performed in the outpatient department. It includes the insertion of a flexible tube or endoscope into your esophagus (food pipe) to view your liver, gallbladder, bile or pancreatic ducts and pancreas. Prior to the procedure, an anesthetic spray might be used at the back of your mouth to prevent gagging during insertion of the endoscope. If required, you may also receive an I.V. (intravenous) sedative to make you calmer and more comfortable. While you lie on the table during the procedure, several X-ray images will be taken as per your doctor’s requirements. You may experience minor discomfort when the doctor injects air or contrast dye for better visualization. An ERCP usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour depending on the purpose of the procedure.

If you have any doubts, you can search for an endoscopy treatment near me or an interventional gastroenterologist near me.

Why is ERCP conducted?

An ERCP is suggested for the following conditions:

To identify the reason behind unexplained abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin)
To gather more data in case you have pancreatitis or cancers of the pancreas, liver or bile ducts
Infection of the bile ducts
Bile duct blockage due to stones or tumors
Pancreatic duct narrowing or blockages
Leakage of fluid from the pancreatic or bile duct
Post gallbladder surgery to treat any complications
As a remedial step in bile duct blockage by insertion of a stent

When do you need to see a doctor?

If you have any of the conditions mentioned above, seek medical help.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Alwarpet,Chennai

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

What are the benefits of ERCP?

ERCP has several benefits as mentioned below.
It can be performed in an outpatient department.
It improves your symptoms of pain, obstructions, stones, etc.
It helps in identifying issues and treats them at the earliest to prevent future complications.
It can effectively treat obstructions.
Enables biopsies via direct visualization.

If you have further doubts you can search for endoscopy treatment near me or interventional gastroenterologist near me.

What are the risks?

ERCP is a relatively safe procedure, when performed by a qualified gastroenterologist. However, minor risks associated with ERCP are listed below:

Infection
Bleeding
Tissue damage due to X-ray exposure
Cardiac or respiratory problems due to allergic reactions to a sedative or contrast dye
Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
Inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis)
Possible esophagus, stomach or small intestine lining tear
Biloma, which is a collection of bile external to the biliary system

Conclusion

An experienced gastroenterologist or surgeon is the most qualified health professional to perform an ERCP. The minor side effects of an ERCP can be reduced if you are in experienced hands.

Reference Links:

https://www.sages.org/publications/patient-information/patient-information-for-ercp-endoscopic-retrograde-cholangio-pancreatography-from-sages/

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/endoscopic-retrograde-cholangiopancreatography-ercp

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/endoscopic-retrograde-cholangiopancreatography

How do you prepare for an ERCP?

Prior to an ERCP, you may take medications as advised by your doctor on the morning of the procedure. You may need to stop taking certain medications like blood thinners and medications which affect your immunity prior to the procedure. You will need to inform your gastroenterologist or surgeon if you are allergic to shellfish or iodine.

What should I expect, post an ERCP?

Post an ERCP you will need to remain at the hospital for 1 or 2 hours till the action of the sedative wears off. You may experience nausea or bloating for a short time post the ERCP. After an ERCP you may experience a sore throat for 1 or 2 days. Once your swallowing reflex returns, you can resume your normal diet.

When will I learn about my ERCP results?

You will be informed about your ERCP results on the same day itself. However, if your doctor has performed a biopsy (removal of a small tissue sample), then the results may take longer as this sample will have to be examined in a laboratory.